The great wine routes of Europe: a journey through nature, adventure and authentic flavours

This isn’t just about sipping elegant glasses in stylish cellars (although that’s definitely a perk). It’s about exploring stunning landscapes, meeting passionate producers and tasting the soul of a place through its land.

If you love adventure, nature and good food, get ready: we’re heading on a journey through Europe’s most fascinating wine routes — the ones that offer unforgettable experiences among vineyards, medieval villages and scenic trails for those who want to combine the pleasure of travel with the thrill of the outdoors.

Why travel along a wine route?

If you think a wine itinerary is only for connoisseurs, think again. Wine routes offer the perfect blend of nature, culture and adventure. One day you might be hiking along ancient vineyard paths, and the next exploring a hidden medieval village or cruising down a river with a glass of wine in hand.

And then there’s the food. Because every wine has its perfect match — and travelling along a wine route means tasting local dishes prepared with regional ingredients and a whole lot of heart.

The best wine routes in Europe for an offbeat experience

The Chianti Wine Route, Tuscany, Italy

The Chianti Wine Route, the beating heart of Tuscany, combines iconic landscapes, extraordinary wines and postcard-perfect villages. Here, you can cycle or walk along sections of the historic Via Francigena, which runs across the region, blending pilgrimage and wine discovery.

Must-do:

1. Cycle or walk along the Via Francigena
2. Visit Greve in Chianti, the region’s lively hub
3. Taste an organic Chianti Classico in a local winery

For the full experience, stay in an agriturismo surrounded by vineyards — even better if your evening ends with a plate of pici al ragù and a glass of Chianti under the stars.

The Champagne Route, France

If you think Champagne is only about luxury and toasts in elegant bars, think again. The Champagne Route offers a wilder, more authentic side to this region. It’s not just a tour of grand maisons, but an adventure through vineyards, small family producers and ancient chalk cellars.

Top experiences:

1. A bike tour through the vineyards of Épernay
2. A picnic among the vines with artisanal Champagne and local cheeses
3. A visit to the Gothic cathedrals of Reims

For an extra thrill, take a hot-air balloon ride over the vineyards. Watching golden rows from above, glass of bubbles in hand? Unforgettable.

The Riesling Route, Germany

The Moselle Valley, stretching between Germany, France and Luxembourg, is a fairytale landscape of terraced vineyards overlooking the river, medieval castles and charming villages where time seems to stand still. Here, the star is the Riesling — fresh, aromatic and perfect for any outdoor adventure.

Don’t miss:

1. A hike to Eltz Castle, one of Europe’s most beautiful fortresses
2. A kayak tour along the Moselle River for a new perspective on the scenery
3. A Riesling tasting inside a cave-carved wine cellar

If you love walking, the Moselsteig Trail is a must — a hiking route through vineyards, forests and landscapes straight out of a painting, ideal for alternating between trekking and tastings.

The Istrian Wine Roads, Croatia

Istria is a paradise for those who love the sea, good food and unspoilt landscapes. Here, you can combine snorkelling and wine tastings, explore mysterious caves and stroll through vineyards overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

Experiences to try:

1. Taste Malvasia Istriana in a seaside winery
2. Visit the Baredine Caves before enjoying a truffle-based lunch
3. Explore the medieval villages of Motovun and Grožnjan

A journey that perfectly combines nature, adventure and authentic flavours.

The Alsace Wine Route, France

The Alsace Wine Route is the oldest and one of the most charming in France — stretching for around 170 km from Marlenheim to Thann, it winds through over 70 picturesque villages and wine towns such as Obernai, Ribeauvillé and Colmar. The route enchants visitors with its endless vineyards, medieval castles and colourful half-timbered houses that look straight out of a fairytale.

Experiences to try:

1. Enjoy a picnic among the vineyards
2. Join one of the many wine festivals from June to September
3. Take part in the Pfifferdaj festival, a medieval celebration honouring minstrels and travelling artists

The Alsace Wine Route is a complete experience — blending nature, culture, tradition and genuine encounters with local winemakers, all wrapped in the festive, welcoming atmosphere that defines this magical wine region.

How to plan a wine route journey (stress-free and full of adventure)

A wine and food trip can be either spontaneous or carefully planned. If you prefer to explore freely, grab a map, rent a bike or car and follow your instincts. If you’d rather relax and let someone else handle the details, many regions offer guided tours and tailor-made wine experiences.

Useful tips:

1. Best time to go: Harvest season (September–October) is ideal to experience the most authentic part of winemaking.
2. Transport: Drive for freedom, cycle if you love a challenge, or join an organised tour for pure relaxation.
3. Winery visits: Book ahead, especially in the most famous regions.

Glamping: the perfect choice for an immersive vineyard escape

Forget hotels — imagine sleeping under a starry sky, surrounded by vineyards and the scent of earth and grapes. Glamping is the ideal choice for those seeking an authentic experience without sacrificing comfort.

Many glamping sites offer exclusive experiences such as vineyard treks, gourmet dinners and immersive wine tastings.

From fresh Italian pasta to French cheeses, and wines that tell centuries of history — every destination has its unique flavour. And if you want to explore this theme even further, check out our complete guide to food and wine tourism in Europe.